The 2nd International Diaspora Forum (FID) is currently underway at the Centre international de conférences de Bamako (CICB), running from July 16 to 18, 2026. This year’s central theme, “Malian diaspora and productive investments: building an economically strong Mali for sustainable development,” underscores the nation’s strategic focus.
Morocco has been welcomed as the guest of honor for this edition, signaling a clear commitment from authorities to position the diaspora as a pivotal force in national economic advancement. The forum’s opening sessions were notably presided over by Prime Minister, Major General Abdoulaye Maïga.
Driss Isbayène, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco to Mali, highlighted his country’s comparable journey with its diaspora. He noted that Morocco has approximately six million citizens residing abroad, a figure closely mirroring the Malian diaspora.
Ambassador Isbayène emphasized that both nations confront a shared challenge: not only maintaining their diaspora’s connection to their homeland but also actively encouraging them to channel investments into ventures that are economically profitable and beneficial to their respective economies.
Alimatou Diallo, a Senegalese national who has resided in Mali for several years, expressed her gratitude for Mali’s exceptional hospitality. She shared her experience, stating, “Since I’ve lived in Mali, I have never felt isolated.” Ms. Diallo further added that “this initiative empowers us to grow and promote our products.”
Habib Sylla, President of the High Council of Malians Established Abroad, recalled the powerful words of Transitional President, General Assimi Goïta, spoken during an audience with the diaspora following the first FID. President Goïta had urged, “Do not hesitate to come and invest in your homeland. I remain fully available to support you in case of any obstacles; my door is always wide open.”
For Mr. Sylla, these words represented “the strongest signal the diaspora could have hoped for.” He extended an invitation to Malians living abroad to continue investing in promising sectors.
Mossa Ag Attaher, the Minister of Malians Established Abroad and African Integration, firmly asserted that “the diaspora is by no means relegated to the periphery of the nation; it beats at the very heart of its destiny.” He elaborated on “Diaspora Hub,” describing it as more than just a digital platform. Instead, it is a meticulously designed digital infrastructure intended to permanently connect Malians abroad with their homeland, institutions, and the vast opportunities for national development.
Prime Minister, Major General Abdoulaye Maïga, articulated this vision as a genuine strategy for Mali’s economic, social, and institutional transformation. He declared, “This vision reflects the ambition to build a sovereign, prosperous, resilient, and united nation by mobilizing all capabilities, including those of our diaspora.”
The Prime Minister further explained that this ambition aligns with the dynamic of the Alliance des États du Sahel, which provides a renewed space for economic integration, regional solidarity, and mutually beneficial cooperation. The Malian diaspora is poised to play a leading role, with its expertise, experience, networks, and investment capacity forming a vital link between Mali, the confederal space, and the wider world.